AUSTIN, Texas (CNN) - Clinton just made an effective argument against John McCain: Though the Arizona senator is a champion against wasteful spending, Clinton pointed to his support for the Bush tax cuts and the war in Iraq - both colossal expenditures unpopular with most Democrats.Obama isn't the only one eager to go head to head with McCain.

soundoff(177 Responses)

Dennis Flannery

But Bill, she didn't answer the question. Her answer had nothing to do with her earmarks.

February 21, 2008 09:50 pm at 9:50 pm |

DAVE B.

Nice closing argument Hill. Shes great a great debater. Obama strength is leadership and judgement. I'd vote for either one in the General Election. In my opinion Obama is the better canidate, because his focus and strength, is the power of the people.

February 21, 2008 09:50 pm at 9:50 pm |

Cynthia from Ohio

While I have voted for every election since I was old enough to do so, this is the first time I am so engaged and really believe my vote is important. And my vote is for Hillary Clinton. She has the experience, confidence, and ability to turn our country around and get us back on track. Hillary For President!

February 21, 2008 09:50 pm at 9:50 pm |

Lynda

Obama won this debate. He provided solid answers and handled Clinton's cheap middle-school shots with grace and poise. The Obama momentum will roll on!

Clinton – old and busted
Obama – the new hotness

Out with the old and in with the new!!

February 21, 2008 09:50 pm at 9:50 pm |

Rozanne

I thought it was a low blow and it reflected very negatively on Senator Clinton. Let it go!

February 21, 2008 09:50 pm at 9:50 pm |

Imani

Hilary didn't answer any questions that she didn't want to answer.

She is a clear politician, not ready to truely change this country.

Ask yourself why you want to vote for Hilary Clinton. We've already had a tough, iron man, ready to keep fighting, where has he gotten us?

February 21, 2008 09:50 pm at 9:50 pm |

Bill F Ky

Unity is needed to get us headed in a different direction. A change of leadership and party may be the breath of fresh air we need to meet the needs of our diverse country.

February 21, 2008 09:50 pm at 9:50 pm |

Dave, Santa Barbara CA

As a previous Republican, then Independent, I am more impressed with Obama each week.

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Raphael

Staci,

I agree with you...You are truly correct..This is totally against marketing...That is all he is..His speeches are for a gym or football field, not a white house...Clinton you are on track to win Texas, Ohio, Etc..

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

JohnS

Where is the great debater– Hillary? I was looking for "knock-out" from Hillary. Hillary could not last any blow, not the least substantial, on Obama.

I am remain quite disappointed in Hillary, if she could not get a knock-out tonight!!!

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

MN Woman

She absolutely deserved that standing ovation! Obama was still writing notes and that finger was coming up to get his point in! She was fabulous in her closing, he couldn't have topped it. It came directly from her heart.

Go Hillary, this is why we love you.

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Amy in Iowa

Clinton will not be able to go head to head with McCain because she voted liked Bush. Hillary does not stand for change.

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

jinga

CNN favors Clinton; pitching the last question to Obama first and letting Hillary sum up. Typical.

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Mary

Hillary is so awesome!!! I do agree with the post that Obama just needs a few more years in the political ring. Hillary is ready NOW!!!!

Her last statement could not have been better!

Hillary '08

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Angela

Obama does well to look forward to debating McCain, especially now that McCain has to take a pause and defend an alleged affair

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Iris

So true Latina, NJ. Clinton using her husband's infidelity come on Hillary...as a woman i am offended that she would take such a low road

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Willa

Their positions are very similar on most issues. However, I don't think they could run together. The means by which they interact and achieve goals is radically different and comes from a different philosophy of human and international relations.

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Miriam

Next debate he should be addressed first, he loves to Xerox other peoples words including hers. Hillary won this one, she did well. Go Hillary, you've got my vote. Hillary/Obama 2008!

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

sm

I truly see not leadership or answers with these two. Open borders, higher taxes. crappy healthcare. We need a leader. Someone tough. And it is neither of those two.

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Hey

She did not get a standing ovation!!! The people were standing and clapping for a good debate. Open your eyes.

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Thomas

I strongly believe Hillary won tonight!

GO HILLARY!!!

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Jackson

OH MY GOD... IS SHE GOING TO CRY...

THERE IS NO CRYING IN PRESIDENTIAL POLITICS

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Glenn

Did she actually say that she can blast McCain over his voting for the Bush Tax Cuts and his vote for the War???? That was huge blunder. He voted against the Bush tax cuts (although he says he is for them now) and She voted for the war also....She is such an idiot.. Ready to lead day one..YEA RIGHT...

OBAMA 08 – YES WE CAN

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Brian

The seem the same, but Clinton plans that. She know politics and she wants the power. But he's honest, and he's real. He will be able to lead our nation into the coming time. She's the expert on back room deals and you can not profit the people by putting dollars in your pocket first.

Obama is clearly the right direction for this country. Clinton is an expert Washington DC Shapeshifter.

February 21, 2008 09:51 pm at 9:51 pm |

Neal

For not being a charismatic speaker, her close was one of her finest moments. Since he's a better orator, I was thinking his close, which was typical Obama, would end him on a high but she really nailed this.